HO PRR Shadow Keystone Covered Hopper Decals

This set was produced to introduce an more comprehensive set for these classes.

In 1931 the PRR started development of a car which could more efficiently transport bulk granular material. This created the GLe class, it also resulted in a singular H21 converted into the singular H21d class proving need for a larger capacity covered hopper. The H30 was the result of this experimental one-off. The H30 design was so successful that 6 orders were placed.
The 6th order was delayed by WW2, and after some minor improvements resulted in creation of the H30a. Still, it was found lighter commodities easily filled the H30 classes, so a larger version, the H32 was created. Finally, the H33 was created by the PRR based on input from commercial freight car builders. All of these classes were used extensively across the system
through to the creation of Penn Central. Some of the cars also got transferred to MOW service.

This sheet includes lettering for the above five classes of cars in their 1954-1960 Shadow Keystone scheme before they were repainted in the Plain Keystone scheme. Included is enough data for 2 GLe, 1 H21d, 2 H30's, 1 H30a, 1 H32 and 1 H33. Mixing and matching the numbers provided will result in additional car numbers.  See the diagram for proper placement. There are six different reweigh/repack dates cover locations systemwide. Also, due to the large order of H30’s, there are multiple build and reweigh dates as well ranging from the mid-1930’s through to the early 1950’s. Additionally, you’ll find various warnings, as shown on lettering diagrams for the cars. While class specific, you may mix and match at your own discretion.

All of these classes except the H21d have been produced by various brass importers. Also, they all have been produced in resin kits by F&C and Westerfield has done the GLe as well. Rail Shop, Inc. has recently released a plastic kit of the H30. The H21d can be bashed using a Bowser model as a starting point.

For painting instructions any of these covered hopper cars  in the Shadow Keystone scheme (1954-1960) the entire car, including underbody is to be painted gray, trucks are painted black.

For references in regard to the PRR's H34 Covered Hopper Car  fleet please consult Pennsylvania Railroad Compendium Vol. 1,  PRR Freight Car Lettering Arrangements 1954-1968 by Middle Division and Volumes 1-3 of the PRR Color Guide.